Celtics Acquire Rights To Kentucky Product In Second Round Of NBA Draft
Amari Williams is headed to Boston after a second-round trade
It took about an hour longer than expected, but the Boston Celtics added a second-round talent in the 2025 NBA Draft.
The Celtics acquired the rights to Amari Williams, who the Orlando Magic technically selected 46th overall.
The 7-foot, 262-pound center played four seasons at Drexel University before he transferred to Kentucky for the 2024-25 campaign. Williams averaged 10.9 points and 8.5 rebounds while shooting 56% from the floor at Kentucky. A native of Nottingham, England, Williams started 36 games while leading the Wildcats in rebounds and field goal percentage.
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His NBA Draft profile states: “Williams is a physically imposing big man with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, known for his defensive prowess and basketball IQ. He excels as a rim protector and rebounder, using his length to alter shots and secure boards. His defensive versatility enables him to guard multiple positions effectively. Offensively, Williams is a capable playmaker from the high post, demonstrating strong passing instincts and vision. He serves as an effective facilitator, often initiating offense and finding open teammates. While not a primary scoring option, he is efficient around the rim and can finish plays as a lob threat. Williams’ leadership and unselfish play have been lauded by coaches and teammates.”
Boston reportedly traded its No. 32 pick to Orlando earlier in the night and acquired Nos. 46 and 57 as well as second-rounders in 2026 and 2027. Orlando thus acquired the rights to France forward Noah Penda, who wore a Celtics hat as he shook the hand of NBA commissioner Adam Silver.
